I just went to give a blood donation for the first time today. The doctor told me to relax and I thought for sure I was. During the blood drawing I felt dizzy and nauseous so the doctor elavated my legs. After the donation my body became so tense it was almost as if I were paralyzed, I was in a lot of pain, my whole body became tingly and I couldn't talk or breathe well. The nurses worked to relax my muscles for 15 minutes. Afterwards they informed me it happened because I was tense during the blood drawing. My medic friend told me it was more likely that it happened from a possibility of diabeties and anemia. I was wondering just why the severe muscle contraction happened after a blood drawing where I believed myself to be relaxed?

Hello,Post donation syncope,or vasovagal inhibition are found in about 3% of blood donors.Anxiety,weight less than 50kgs,and anti hypertensive drugs usage constituted the main persons affected.First time donors have an higher incidence.Recovery is rapid and no deleterious effects on any organ.This need not be a worry though it can cause some temporary anxiety for both the donor and staff.Best wishes.